Finland Schengen visa photo requirements
Finland uses the shared Schengen photo standard — 35 × 45 mm, ICAO biometric framing, plain light background. This page covers the photo standard plus how Finland consulates handle Schengen visa applications: where to apply, processing times, fees and consulate-level handling.
Quick answer
35 × 45 mm photo · VFS Global in most markets · €90
Prepare a 35 × 45 mm biometric photo on a plain light background. Apply through Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs + VFS Global / Nordic representation. Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Processing time 15 calendar days. Last reviewed .
Application route
| Issuing authority | Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs + VFS Global / Nordic representation |
|---|---|
| Visa application centre | VFS Global in most markets |
| Processing time | 15 calendar days; the queue rises during summer travel season |
| Standard fee | €90 |
| Reduced fee | €45 for children 6–12 |
| Application languages | Finnish, Swedish, English |
| Official portal | Finland short-stay visa portal ↗ |
Photo specification
Schengen 35 × 45 mm. The Finnish MFA references the shared Schengen photo standard for short-stay visa applications.
| Size | 35 × 45 mm |
|---|---|
| Head height | 70–80% of frame height (32–36 mm chin-to-crown) |
| Background | plain light grey or off-white, even illumination |
| Pose | Front-facing, head level, both ears typically visible |
| Expression | Neutral, mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible |
| Glasses | Strongly discouraged; remove for the shot. See full rules → |
| Head covering | Religious coverings allowed when facial features remain fully visible |
| Age of photo | Taken within the last 6 months |
Finland consulate handling
Finnish consulates apply tight rules on print colour — the printed background must read as light grey, not white, on the application copy.
Finland national document photos
Frequently asked questions about Finland Schengen visa photos
What size is the Finland Schengen visa photo?
35 × 45 mm. Finland uses the shared Schengen biometric photo standard — the same as every other Schengen state. The head must occupy 70–80% of the frame height with a plain light background.
Where do I apply for a Finland Schengen visa?
Apply through the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs + VFS Global / Nordic representation. Finnish consulates apply tight rules on print colour — the printed background must read as light grey, not white, on the application copy.
How long does Finland take to process a Schengen visa?
15 calendar days; the queue rises during summer travel season. First-time applicants and applications submitted during peak travel seasons tend to fall toward the upper end of this window.
What does the Finland Schengen visa cost?
Standard fee €90, €45 for children 6–12. Some markets add a VAC service fee on top of the consular fee paid to VFS Global in most markets.
Can I wear glasses in a Finland Schengen visa photo?
Finland follows the shared Schengen baseline: glasses are strongly discouraged because of glare and frame-related rejection risk. The safest choice at every consulate is to remove glasses before the shot.
Compare other Schengen countries
Prepare your Finland Schengen visa photo
Upload a portrait — Anfas.Pro crops it to the 35 × 45 mm Schengen biometric frame and checks the background automatically.